Laser Cutter

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Details: THIS IS A DRAFT

== UNDER CONSTRUCTION ='

About

This device allows users to take designs created on a computer and cut them out using many different materials.

Designs are made using Inkscape, an open-source vector graphics editor (other editors, such as Draftsight and Adobe Illustrator, can be used as well).

LASER cutting is a great way to rapidly prototype projects.

MakeICT's LASER cutting machine was built by Rabbit Laser.

Classes

• Inkscape workshop - suggested
• Laser Cutter Basics Class

LASER use policy

• You must take the LASER Cutter Basics Class to be approved to use the LASER cutter
• You must be a member

LASER Cutter Specific Safety

LASER cutters pose a fire hazard. LASER cutters use a high intensity beam of LASER light that can produce extremely high temperatures as it comes into contact with the materials it is engraving, marking or cutting.

The LASER cutter is a potentially dangerous piece of equipment which must only be operated by members who have received appropriate training and who take due care. The top things to always remember when using the LASER cutter are:

1. ONLY USE THE LASER CUTTER IF YOU ARE ON THE LIST OF TRAINED USERS
2. NEVER LEAVE THE LASER CUTTER RUNNING UNATTENDED
3. NEVER CUT MATERIALS THAT YOU DON'T KNOW ARE SAFE
4. NEVER OVERRIDE THE LASER CUTTER SAFETIES
5. KNOW WHAT TO DO IF A FIRE BREAKS OUT
   1. HIT the BIG RED button on the LASER control panel
   2. A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) fire extinguisher is located next to the LASER cutter

Before starting the LASER cutter:

1. Check the cooling solution window in the back of the chiller before starting any project.

After starting the LASER cutter:

1. Before cutting make sure the air compressor and the fan motor are on.
2. Refer to the cutting manual for appropriate engraving and cutting Power and Speed settings for varied materials.
3. Beware of FLAMMABLE materials while using the machines.
4. Certain materials are NOT ALLOWED in the LASER cutter including any PVC material, reflective materials
   1. See the DO NOT USE THESE MATERIALS section

Approved Materials for the LASER Cutter

Under construction

DO NOT USE THESE MATERIALS

• PVC
• VINYL
• CHLORINE BASED PRODUCTS
  • Identifying Unknown Plastics
  • Watch this video Polymer Identification by Burnination
    • Beilstein test
  • You should read this (pdf) chemistry lab written by [David A. Katz] to learn how to identify what type of plastic it is
• List posted in LASER Cutter area

Prepare your design

1. Download and install inkscape
2. Create your design using paths and objects (if you want an image, you must trace it)

If something goes wrong during your print

1. Hit the RED button

Maintenance

Weekly mirror and lens cleaning is required by trained staff

Tips:

• The LASER cutter will generally not cut anything greater than 0.25” (6mm), anything thicker will require several passes.

THIS IS A DRAFT